ORGANISERS at the Royal Lancashire Show are keeping their fingers crossed for fine weather next week, after heavy rain and traffic chaos conspired to make last year's show a washout.

Show bosses have assured Ribble Valley Council the show will be a success even if the weather is bad again.

The prestigious agricultural show, which will be held at Salesbury Hall Farm, Ribchester, from Tuesday until Thursday, is one of the North-west's most popular events, attracting around 60,000 visitors last year despite the conditions.

This year, attractions will include farm sections, country crafts, equestrian and horticultural exhibitions, sheep dog trials, show jumping and more than 200 trade stands.

The sheep, cattle, pig and goat sections are to be reintroduced after a two-year absence due to the foot and mouth disease outbreak in 2001 and 2002.

Visitors will also have the chance to get expert angling advice from well-known personalities in the sport, who will be at a fishing centre on the banks of the River Ribble.

Daily prices are £12 for adults, £7 for senior citizens and £6 for children aged five and over.

Family tickets for two adults and up to three children are £30.